Senator The Hon Fiona Nash

Minister for Regional Development
Minister for Regional Communications
former Minister for Rural Health

Better Training Available for Rural WA Health Professionals

Health professionals and students in rural and remote Western Australia are set to receive better training opportunities with the opening of a simulation training and education (EdSIM) centre in Geraldton.

Health professionals and students in rural and remote Western Australia are set to receive better training opportunities with the opening of a simulation training and education (EdSIM) centre in Geraldton.

The expanded education and clinical training space, at the Western Australia Centre for Rural Health, aims to improve rural health practice in Western Australia.

The $3.7 million EdSIM centre, which includes $2.5 million in Commonwealth Government funding, consists of two demonstration bays, five consultation rooms, staff offices and student areas, along with integrated audio visual and IT systems.

Assistant Minister for Health, Senator Fiona Nash, said the facility features the latest technology which allows health students completing placements in regional sites to access support and better training experiences.

“This technology allows students in Geraldton to interact on a face-to-face level with health professionals, universities and supervisors anywhere in the country, providing educational opportunities previously inaccessible in rural WA,” Senator Nash said.

“In time, the simulation training on offer at this facility will also allow for better training of health workers in rare and complex procedures such as treating cardiac arrest and the management of chronic conditions, ultimately improving care and safety for patients.

“Simulated training is an innovative and affordable way to break down the distance barriers in training and helps complement existing face-to-face patient interaction.

“Providing education, training and support to students and rural health professionals is vital to providing better care and health outcomes for Australians living in rural and remote areas.”

Senator Nash said the new facilities at the WA Centre for Rural Health offers medical, nursing and allied health students the opportunity to practise their clinical skills in a rural environment, encouraging them to consider a rural career.

“Providing top quality education to undergraduate students in a rural and remote setting is an important step in attracting and keeping more health professionals in rural WA.”

The Western Australian Centre for Rural Health has its main site in Geraldton, with training sites in Mount Magnet, Mullewa and Three Springs.